Longtime UFC heavyweight Matt Mitrione has signed a four-fight deal with Bellator MMA.

Mitrione (9-5) announced the contract during an appearance on "The MMA Hour" on Monday. A former contestant on "The Ultimate Fighter" reality series, Mitrione has fought his entire 14-fight career inside the Octagon. He said the UFC waived its matching rights on the Bellator contract. According to Mitrione, the new deal pays him double what he previously made.

Bellator officials have not announced a date or opponent for Mitrione's debut. He is coming off a TKO loss to Travis Browne in January. Mitrione is currently appealing that result with the Massachusetts State Athletic Commission, citing multiple officiating errors.

Mitrione, 37, holds notable career wins against Kimbo Slice, Derrick Lewis and Gabriel Gonzaga. Eight of his career nine wins have come via knockout. His losses have come against mostly elite competition, including names like Browne, Ben Rothwell and Roy Nelson.